Designer Spotlight – LINE Knitwear

Kicking off World MasterCard Fashion week last night was the dynamic duo of LINE Knitwear, John Muscat and Jennifer Wells.  Since 2000, LINE Knitwear has been geared towards the modern yet urban woman.  Their focus on quality and timeless knitwear has not changed.

Before their Fall/Winter Fall 2014 presentation I had a chance to chat with John about their upcoming production, the evolution of LINE Knitwear, and where the collection is headed.

With the retail market always changing I wondered if their design philosophy had changed since the lines inception in 2000.  “Since starting out, we’ve been able to refine our design process and clearly define who our target LINE woman is,” says Muscat.  LINE knitwear combines practicality and style, which is probably why they have become so popular amongst their celebrity fan base and gained international exposure.  When asked about their long term goals for LINE, Muscat says, “Our long-term goals are in line with our short term goals: push the design process further and farther while addressing our clientele’s needs.”  This constant need to address their client’s wishes is what pushes Muscat and Wells to keeps LINE fresh and interesting.  This season, their inspiration came from the bold colours in nature and the hidden wonders of the forest.

The presentation included a strong contrast between hard and soft as well as strong and pretty.  This could be seen in the mix of sleek and straight embossed leather skirt and a soft angora crop sweater.  Zipper details mixed with fabulous long and lush draped sweaters, or velvet skirts and tees mixed with soft wool collar coats.  The colours were stunning.  Gorgeous fuchsias, scarlet pink, and powder pink all blended into one vibrant colour palette.  The introduction of mint, cobalt blue, and ivory gave the collection depth and interest.  You won’t find a boring black collection here.

The soft angora shoulder snood was a feminine yet sexy twist on the draped or cowl collars we have seen in previous seasons.  LINE showed it layered over a tank, bustier top, or strapless jumper, and you just know that this item is a must own for fall.  My personal favourite were the long knit cardigans with leather and zipper accents layered over a sleek and body hugging knit dress.

With another fabulous collection under their belt and fourteen years working together I wondered if Muscat and Wells’ relationship has changed. “Jenn and I have been working together for a long time, so naturally our roles are going to evolve and change over the years. I think I’m more involved in the editing process, and Jenn has really immersed herself in the strategy of the brand,” says Muscat.  Like any partnership there is always room for growth and improvement but it seems that these two have it down to a science. My final question to this hometown team?  Where is LINE Knitwear headed next?  “We really believe in an organic growth for LINE and finding the right international partners. We have a great team in Australia and have been very successful there.”